2 Cash - Qiandao (Yuanbao; Regular script; Yu; iron) ND (1170-1173) front 2 Cash - Qiandao (Yuanbao; Regular script; Yu; iron) ND (1170-1173) back
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2 Cash - Qiandao Yuanbao; Regular script; Yu; iron ND

 
Iron - 29 mm
Description
Issuer
Empire of China
Emperor
Southern Song dynasty › Xiaozong (宋孝宗) (1162-1189)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
1170-1173
Value
2 Cash
Currency
Cash (621-1912)
Composition
Iron
Diameter
29 mm
Shape
Round with a square hole
Technique
Cast
Orientation
Medal alignment ↑↑
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-03
References
Numista
N#218520
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

One Chinese ideogram above.

Script: Chinese (traditional, regular script)

Lettering:

Translation:
Yu
Yufeng / Yuguo (mints)

Edge

Plain

Comment

Hartill says this mintmark is from the Yuguo Mint; however, for the Yufeng Mint, the "List of Song Dynasty Mints for Iron & Tin Alloy Cash (宋代铁钱监、夹锡钱监一览表)" says to see the description of the Yuguo Mint. It is possible both mints used this mintmark.

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about this coin is that it was made of iron, which was a unusual choice of material for coins at that time, as most coins were made of copper, silver or gold. The use of iron as a material for coins was likely a result of a shortage of other metals, and it was a common practice during the Song Dynasty (960-1279) in China.